Brian Richman for School Board

In this year of great uncertainty with regard to school funding and state and local priorities, it is perhaps more important than ever to elect to our school boards those who not only care about our children, schools, and cities, but who also have the knowledge, skills, and experience to navigate us through these complex times.

Brian Richman is one such candidate. Brian will bring to the Iowa City School Board his 25 years of experience as a public finance banker and educator, the skills of collaboration and governance gained as a member and chairman of the Iowa City Housing and Community Development Commission, a thoughtful and analytical decision-making process, and a promise to reintroduce transparency and accountability to the board. There is no other candidate so well equipped to oversee our fast-expanding district and ensure that precious resources are put to the best use for all of our children today and into the future. I am extremely excited that someone of Brian’s character and competence has put his name forth in this election. Please join me in supporting Brian Richman for School Board.

Peter Byler

Latasha DeLoach for School Board

I am writing to express my support for LaTasha DeLoach, candidate for a four-year term on the School Board.

LaTasha, who graduated from City High, earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of Iowa. LaTasha’s current involvement in our community and schools is unique among the field of candidates. She is employed as a community projects specialist with Johnson County Social Services.

In her role as a social worker and community leader, LaTasha heads the Disproportionate Minority Contact Committee and the Community Partnership for Protecting Children. She also is the co-creator and facilitator of G! World and My Beaut I Ful Self, successful programs that have helped minority girls ages 10-18 to become more involved in their schools in the Sschool District. LaTasha is a tireless advocate for youth throughout Johnson County. Her experience and community connections will bring a much-needed perspective to our School Board.

We are fortunate to live in a community with excellent public schools. In order for our schools to remain strong and to continue to improve, we need board members who are creative thinkers, respectful and open to the ideas of others, and also have the combination of knowledge and experience to make sound decisions that serve all of the children in our School District. I believe that LaTasha possesses all of these qualities, and I look forward to casting my vote for her on Sept. 8. I encourage you to do the same.

Beth Gier